Power feeds for commercial cove lighting

Prepare a cove feed schedule from identified strip sections and actual component limits. Neither reel length nor a generic “maximum run” table is enough to decide how a commercial installation should be divided.

Decision and input record

Decision	What to check	Record or boundary
Section S01	Source model, active length and allowed feed arrangement	Exact-model data
Feed F01	Route, loop loss and termination identity	Electrical review
Driver D01	Usable output at installation conditions	Driver datasheet and assembly test

Build the section schedule

For each section, record its code, active length, exact source model, voltage, rated power basis, proposed feed arrangement and control zone. Obtain the product-specific permitted run and feed information. Keep mechanically separate pieces identifiable even when the architect sees one continuous line.

Calculate the declared DC load

For a hypothetical uniform strip rated at 10 W/m, an 8 m total active length gives 80 W at the stated rating basis. At a nominal 24 V, the corresponding design-current arithmetic is 80/24 = 3.33 A. These are planning calculations, not measured BEXLIGHT product results. Use the source and controller documentation to determine the actual worst permitted operating scene.

Choose a capacity scenario explicitly

If a designer chooses an 80% utilization assumption, an 80 W load gives 80/0.8 = 100 W of scenario capacity. That assumption is not a universal driver rule. Check the exact driver’s temperature and input derating, output limits, installation requirements and startup behaviour. A controller or connector can remain a limiting component even when the driver has spare nameplate capacity.

Review the feed path separately

Record cable lengths and the relevant conductor resistance, then estimate loop loss. That calculation does not describe losses along the strip PCB or inside joints. Ask the electrical designer to review conductor suitability and protection. Do not join outputs from independent supplies or choose a two-end feed detail without an approved product-specific scheme.

Close the drawing loop

Label feeds and equipment access on the ceiling plan. Demonstrate the longest or otherwise demanding section in the installation geometry. Record supply conditions, visual observations and the manufacturer-required temperature checks. Keep the final schedule with the as-built controls and replacement instructions.

What to include in a technical inquiry

Send the route plan, section lengths and equipment locations. Open inputs such as driver enclosure temperature or an unconfirmed product run limit should stay visible in the schedule until resolved.

Discuss the application and supply scope

Continue with the relevant detail

• Cove lighting for commercial interiors
• DC cable voltage-drop planning
• Strip load and driver-capacity worksheet

Reference and scope

• MEAN WELL: driver application and operating-condition guidance. Driver-specific application reference; no BEXLIGHT product approval implied.